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Weather Comparison

Barcelona vs Valencia

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Barcelona: 21°CValencia: 24°C303 km apart

May Weather: Barcelona vs Valencia

MetricBarcelonaValenciaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer21°C (70°F)24°C (75°F)Valencia
Average LowHigher is milder13°C (55°F)14°C (57°F)Valencia
Rain DaysFewer is drier7 days6 daysValencia
PrecipitationLess is drier46 mm33 mmValencia
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier12h/day13h/dayValencia
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better17 km/h17 km/hTie

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Valencia edges ahead as the better destination in May. Valencia offers 13 hours of daily sunshine with only 6 rain days, while Barcelona sees 12 sunshine hours and 7 rain days.

Barcelona sits in the comfortable travel range at 21°C. Valencia is also comfortable at 24°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Valencia is the stronger choice in May. Valencia receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Barcelona reaches an average high of 21°C (70°F) and drops to 13°C (55°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Valencia averages 24°C (75°F) for the high and 14°C (57°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Barcelona receives approximately 46 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during May. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Valencia sees 33 mm over 6 rain days. That makes Valencia the drier option by 1 rain day and 13 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Barcelona vs Valencia

Packing for Barcelona in May

Highs of 21°C, lows of 13°C, 7 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Packing for Valencia in May

Highs of 24°C, lows of 14°C, 6 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen, a packable rain jacket, an umbrella. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Barcelona vs Valencia

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthBarcelonaValencia
HighRainHighRain
Jan13°C6d15°C5d
Feb13°C6d16°C4d
Mar16°C7d18°C5d
Apr17°C9d21°C6d
May21°C7d24°C6d
Jun25°C6d28°C3d
Jul27°C5d30°C2d
Aug28°C7d30°C4d
Sep24°C11d27°C7d
Oct21°C10d23°C6d
Nov16°C8d19°C5d
Dec13°C6d15°C5d
21°

Barcelona Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

24°

Valencia Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barcelona warmer than Valencia in May?
No. In May, Valencia is warmer with an average high of 24°C (75°F) compared to Barcelona at 21°C (70°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Barcelona or Valencia?
Barcelona gets more rain in May with 7 rain days and 46 mm of precipitation. Valencia is the drier option with 6 rain days.
Is it better to visit Barcelona or Valencia in May?
It depends on your preferences. Barcelona averages 21°C and 12 hours of daily sunshine with 7 rain days. Valencia averages 24°C with 13 sunshine hours and 6 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Valencia. For fewer rain days, Valencia is the better pick.
How far apart are Barcelona and Valencia?
Barcelona and Valencia are approximately 303 km (188 miles) apart. Barcelona is located in Spain (Europe) while Valencia is in Spain (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Barcelona and Valencia?
For Barcelona, July tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 27°C. For Valencia, July is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 30°C highs.

Compare Barcelona and Valencia in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Barcelona coordinates: 41.39°N, 2.17°E | Valencia coordinates: 39.47°N, -0.38°E